How to loose weight as well as cholesterol

Hozaifa Asrar

1 year ago

How to loose weight as well as cholesterol

Fibre Intake Nutrition Lifestyle Physical activity Others

Happy Tummy Expert

1 year ago

Dear Hozaifa Asrar, Thank you for the question

Cholesterol is a natural component that is found in human blood and other cells of the body. It supports normal function of cell membranes, and synthesis of hormone, bile acids, Vitamin D etc. Our liver produces cholesterol in adequate amounts that is required by the body.

Low Density lipoprotein(LDL) is considered as bad cholesterol and High Density lipoprotein(HDL) is considered as good cholesterol

However increased intake of high fat foods, leads to elevated levels of cholesterol in blood and may potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders. Some of the factors include genetics, stress, sedentary lifestyle, medications, an underlying health condition etc. The type and quantity of fat in the daily diet also influences the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

Certain foods like soyabean, fenugreek, garlic, onion, flaxseeds, oats and turmeric can be included in the daily balanced diet due to their antioxidant properties and biochemical compounds present in them. However increased intake of high fat foods, leads to elevated levels of cholesterol in blood and may potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders. Some of the factors include genetics, stress, sedentary lifestyle, medications, an underlying health condition etc. The type and quantity of fat in the daily diet also influences the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

Adolescence witnesses speedy physical and emotional development. These changes also demand for specific nutrient requirements. It is very important to consume a well-balanced diversified diet and engage in regular physical activity to support growth, pubertal changes, bone developments and increased haemoglobin production.

Reference weight and height for a 19-year-old male is 52.7-64.1kg and 164.8-177.8cm Respectively

Sustainable weight management requires a holistic approach which involves lifestyle management which includes Dietary modification, Physical activity, hydration, and stress management. With any weight loss plan changes take time to reflect as your body requires sufficient time to adapt to the changes in order to show results.

An ideal weight loss meal plan should include calorie deficit diet with appropriate exercise regime followed under professional guidance.

However here are few objectives to be considered when planning to start with a weight loss program.

Count Your Daily Calories

It is recommended to consume 500kcal less than your average, daily, current dietary intake of calories to target on 2-3kg weight loss per month (ideally 0.5kg per week).
This target is a healthy& sustainable way of reducing and then maintaining the weight loss.
The first step hence is “counting your daily calorie intakes”. Counting your daily calorie intake is proven to be effective when on a weight loss diet. You can use applications/apps freely available, that will help you count your calories to keep a track on your daily calorie intake and physical activity levels.
These apps will also help you to track your hydration & sleep patterns which also impact your weight.

General Dietary Guidelines for weight loss & Cholesterol that can be considered:

Eat a well-balanced diet that includes all the 5 food groups (cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, milk & milk products).
Do not skip your meals. Have small quantity of meals at regular intervals.
Choose healthy snacking options in between your meals.
Monitor your portion size.
Include protein in your diet. Some of the sources include pulses, lentils, milk, paneer, soybean, eggs, lean meat, nuts & seeds, etc.
Fiber in your meals can potentiate the satiating property, suppress excess hunger and control food intake. All fruits and vegetables, whole grains, multigrains, millets, nuts & seeds etc., are a good source of fiber.
Foods sources containing carotenoids and vitamin E are good sources of antioxidants that may help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Deep Fried foods to be restricted. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.
Limit the consumption of high fat foods such as butter, cheese, red meat etc.
Consuming low fat (skimmed) milk instead of whole milk is preferable.
Restrict consumption of foods that are high in Saturated fatty acids and trans fats.
Try switching from saturated fats and trans fats to MUFA (mono-unsaturated fatty acids) & PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids) as they are essential fatty acids and are good for your health.
Consume fresh, seasonal fruits as they contain many essential nutrients and are good sources of fiber.
Carbonated and alcoholic beverages to be limited or preferably avoided.
Minimum of 8 glasses of water should be consumed to keep yourself hydrated.
Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before Bed time.
Try to follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and quality.